Real Madrid head into this game knowing that Malaga had been thrashed by a score of 6-0 to Barcelona, and will be looking for a similar performance themselves against Malaga to keep themselves hot on the heels of Barcelona who play 2 hours earlier.

Madrid have almost all their players fit for this game but will be unhappy on the fact that they have very few options on the left wing as Arjen Robben and Marcelo have been ruled out through injury and Heinze is suspended. Expect Rafael van der Vaart to get his opportunity to push his way into the side with a good performance today.

Real Madrid have been particularly lucky that captain Raul had a good rest and will be looking to bang in the goals, and the fact that Real have won their last 4 times in the first game back after the international break.

Malaga who are fighting for a UEFA Europa League spot for next season, are level on points with 5th placed Atletico and have been playing well this season, but their inability to defend having an average of 3 goals per game at home, will be something to be careful off.

Real Madrid have gained 37 from a possible 39 points in their last 13 games, and I expect them to continue on this great form this season.